By Seth Vertelney

0

May 22, 2013 11:32:00 AM

The former U.S. national team captain will leave the U.S. program in favor of a position with Major League Soccer's newest franchise.

U.S. Soccer youth technical director Claudio Reyna has left his position with the U.S. Soccer Federation, and has been named director of football for Major League Soccer's newest franchise, New York City FC.

Reyna's role consists of recruiting players, coaches and trainers, and other support staff, in preparation for the team’s inaugural MLS season in 2015.

“Having had the privilege of playing both for my country here in the U.S. and for Manchester City FC in England, I could not have hoped for a more tailored-made opportunity in soccer,” Reyna said.

Reyna is a New Jersey native who played for Manchester City, among several other teams, during his career. The Sky Blues will partner with the New York Yankees to own the league's 20th franchise, which was announced Tuesday.

“Finding the right person for this role and getting him in place from the start was a priority,” said Ferran Soriano, CEO of Manchester City. “The football culture of New York City FC will be built from this decision, and we believe Claudio is the man who uniquely understands what New York soccer should mean, and how it can benefit from the relationship with Manchester City FC.”